Polk County does not set numeric decibel limits for general noise in the unincorporated area. Its zoning code uses a qualitative lot-line standard instead: noise must not be excessive at the property boundary. Cities in the county may set numeric dBA limits.
Rather than fixed dBA thresholds, the Polk County Zoning Ordinance controls noise from public, utility, and similar uses with a performance standard measured at the lot line, and may require a licensed engineer to certify that noise is not present at the boundary. Certain uses (airports) reference a defined noise cone. Numeric decibel caps for everyday noise are set by individual cities, not the county. Des Moines, for example, uses dBA-based permit standards for amplified sound.
Excessive-noise findings are enforced as zoning violations (misdemeanors) abatable under Chapter 2 of the Polk County Code; the Zoning Administrator may require engineer certification.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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